Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

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There’s something timeless about the aroma of freshly baked peanut butter cookies wafting through the kitchen, and this recipe, passed down from Jimmy Carter’s grandmother, carries that comforting nostalgia in every bite. These cookies are soft in the center, with a delicate crisp edge and a rich, nutty flavor that makes them perfect for an afternoon treat or a late-night indulgence.

The charm of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Made with pantry staples and a generous helping of creamy peanut butter, each cookie delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a flavor that lingers. Whether you grew up with a jar of peanut butter always in the cupboard or you’re just now discovering its magic in baking, this recipe will make you appreciate the humble peanut in a whole new way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between soft and chewy, with a nutty richness that’s not overly sweet. It’s quick to prepare, doesn’t require any fancy equipment, and makes a batch large enough to share (or keep all to yourself). Best of all, it’s a piece of Americana on a plate, connecting you to a tradition of home baking that’s as warm as a Georgia summer.

What Kind of Peanut Butter Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, go for a smooth, creamy peanut butter that’s not too oily. While natural peanut butters work, they can sometimes make the dough too loose, so if you use one, make sure to stir it thoroughly and be ready to adjust the flour slightly. Classic, shelf-stable peanut butter gives you that nostalgic flavor and consistency that made this recipe a household favorite for generations.

Ingredients for Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

These cookies rely on a handful of classic baking staples that work together to create their soft, chewy texture and deep peanut flavor. Every ingredient plays an important role in balancing sweetness, structure, and that irresistible nutty aroma.

• Peanut butter – The heart of the recipe, giving the cookies their rich, nutty flavor.
• Butter – Adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and helps with the cookies’ crisp edges.
• Brown sugar – Adds a hint of molasses for depth and chewiness.
• Eggs – Bind the dough and add richness.
• All-purpose flour – Gives structure to the cookies.
• Baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and stay soft.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances all the flavors.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the peanut flavor.

How To Make the Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Base

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mixture, helping create a tender cookie.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for a boost of warm, sweet aroma.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and press each ball gently with a fork to create a crisscross pattern.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 6: Enjoy

Serve warm for a melt-in-your-mouth experience, or store once cooled for a classic treat any time of day.

Serving and Storing These Peanut Butter Cookies

This recipe yields about 24 cookies, making it perfect for sharing with family, neighbors, or keeping a jar stocked for the week. Serve them slightly warm with a glass of cold milk for a nostalgic pairing, or crumble them over vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert upgrade.

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them soft. If you’d like to extend their freshness, they freeze beautifully – simply layer them between sheets of parchment in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What to Serve With Peanut Butter Cookies?

A Cold Glass of Milk

The classic combination that brings out the cookie’s rich peanut flavor.

Hot Coffee or Espresso

The nutty notes of the cookies pair beautifully with the boldness of coffee.

Hot Chocolate

For a double comfort treat, enjoy your cookies alongside a warm, creamy cocoa.

Fresh Fruit Salad

A refreshing counterbalance to the cookies’ sweetness.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Sandwich a scoop between two cookies for a decadent dessert.

Peanut Butter Milkshake

Double down on the peanut theme with a creamy shake.

Cheese Plate

Pair cookies with mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese for a sweet-savory snack.

Want More Cookie Ideas?

If you love these peanut butter cookies, you might also enjoy some of these other comforting and creative recipes from Luna Meals:

• Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies for a chewy, crunchy twist.
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread if you love pairing peanut butter with fruit.
• Irresistible Peanut Butter Truffles for a no-bake treat.
• Brownie Mix Cookies when you’re craving deep chocolate flavor.
• Hot Fudge Brownie Bread for a rich, gooey dessert loaf.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make them with smooth peanut butter or go for a chunky crunch? Maybe you added a sprinkle of sea salt on top? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and sweet treats on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to recipes for every occasion!

Conclusion

Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies aren’t just a recipe – they’re a warm piece of history, carrying the flavors of home and the comfort of tradition. Whether you bake them for a special occasion or just because, each bite is a reminder that the simplest recipes often bring the greatest joy.

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